In this episode of The Everyday Stoic, William Mulligan is joined by Oxford-educated neuroscientist Dr. Sarah McKay to explore Stoic philosophy through a scientific lens.

Dr. McKay provides her expert opinion on the core principles of Stoicism, examining the four cardinal virtues of wisdom, courage, justice, and temperance from a developmental and neurological perspective. The conversation covers practical Stoic exercises, such as the Dichotomy of Control and the concept of Premeditatio Malorum

In the conversation, they explore the understanding of how these philosophical concepts align with our understanding of the human brain, how virtues may change and develop across our lifespan, and how to apply these ideas to cultivate resilience and live a more examined life.

What if every hardship you face was not a setback, but an invitation to grow? In this episode, William explores how the Stoics saw difficulties not as punishments but as opportunities to build virtue, discipline, and inner strength.

Drawing on the wisdom of Epictetus and Marcus Aurelius, as well as modern examples like Kobe Bryant, Muhammad Ali, and Maya Angelou, William explains how small daily decisions forge greatness. From resisting distractions to keeping your inner flame alive, this episode shows why true courage is found in the little victories you win each day.

William shows how to see challenges as sparring partners sent to prepare you for a greater life, and how the Stoic mindset can transform pain into purpose, chaos into justice, and obstacles into stepping stones.

If you feel overwhelmed, stuck in procrastination, or tempted to give up, this episode will remind you that the fight itself is proof you are still in the game, and that every small win brings you closer to becoming who you are meant to be.

In this episode, William Mulligan speaks with Zen Buddhist teacher Haemin Sunim to explore how Stoicism and Zen, two ancient traditions from opposite sides of the world, arrive at remarkably similar insights about living well.

Their conversation dives into the challenge of resisting the present moment and how acceptance can transform suffering into peace. Haemin shares practical ways to quiet the mind, through mindful breathing, gratitude, and compassion, while William reflects on Stoic practices such as memento mori and the dichotomy of control. Together they reveal how both philosophies guide us toward embracing fate, living with virtue, and finding meaning in the here and now.

They also discuss the rise of modern anxiety, the power of small acts of kindness, and what it truly means to live a fulfilling life beyond wealth or status. This episode is a thoughtful meeting of East and West, offering wisdom for anyone seeking calm, courage, and connection in today’s world.